If you’re a fan of rich, creamy, and cheesy dishes, this Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Casserole is guaranteed to be a family favorite. Combining tender chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxurious Alfredo sauce, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese, this casserole is the definition of comfort food. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table and leaves no leftovers behind.
This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal that comes together easily. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a hot and hearty dinner ready in no time. The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce and gooey melted cheese creates an irresistible dish that even picky eaters will love.
Chicken Alfredo is already a beloved classic, but turning it into a baked casserole adds a whole new level of flavor and texture. The pasta absorbs the creamy sauce as it bakes, and the cheese topping forms a golden, bubbly crust that’s impossible to resist. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken.
What makes this dish even better is how easy it is to customize. Add vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach to sneak in some extra nutrition, or spice it up with a dash of crushed red pepper for a little heat. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, making it even easier to throw this casserole together.
Not only is this casserole delicious, but it’s also an excellent make-ahead meal. You can assemble it in advance and bake it when you’re ready, making it perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.
Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dish. The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness creates a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, leftovers (if there are any!) taste just as good the next day.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Casserole is the perfect choice. It’s a crowd-pleasing comfort food that’s easy to make, customizable, and always a hit at the dinner table.
So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a casserole that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Servings
Serves: 6
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Mix the Sauce and Pasta
- Combine Alfredo Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Add Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce mixture. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir until everything is well coated.
Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for Crisp Top (Optional): For a golden, crispy top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Garnish and Serve
- Add Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy immediately!
Pro Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken.
- Add Vegetables: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Extra Cheesy Option: For an extra cheesy casserole, add a layer of mozzarella in the middle before adding the top layer.
Summary
Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a rich and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with a golden, bubbly layer of melted cheese. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.